Degradation of β-Tritiated Polystyrene by Self-Irradiation

Abstract

β-Tritiated polystyrene undergoes decomposition due to seif- irradiation. The effects of irradiation in air and high vacuum at 25°C were studied and simultaneous chain scission and cross-linking were observed under both conditions. Analyses of gaseous products and polymer residues were carried out. Hydrogen was the only product of vacuum irradiation while water, formaldehyde, benzaldehyde, styrene and hydrogen were formed on irradiation in air. Possible mechanisms of degradation are discussed.